Heritage

2016 – Liddell Unveils Replica Titanic Linen

Celebrating the brand’s rich history and links to the RMS Titanic, they unveiled an exclusive collection of limited edition Titanic table linen – almost identical to that which would have sailed with the ocean liner from Southampton on the ill-fated voyage.

2016 – Liddell Celebrates 150th Anniversary

An extra special year for the luxury linen brand; Liddell celebrates its 150th anniversary making it older than the likes of Heinz, Coca Cola and even Kellogg’s. Commemorating the occasion, the brand hosts a special event aboard the Belmond British Pullman for a five-star round-trip around the Kent countryside. A history of Liddell book was also created to mark the anniversary.

2013 – Collections unveiled at The Dorchester

The unveiling of Liddell’s truly luxurious three day experience at the world-renowned Dorchester Hotel. Showcasing the finest collections of bed, bath, spa and table linen collections, it promises to be the last word in luxury and time very well spent.

2008 – Liddell acquired by Vision

Liddell is acquired by Vision Support Services Group, combining hundreds of years of Irish craftsmanship with a new level of global sourcing expertise.

2004 – Liddell bought by Hilden

Due to its ever-growing reputation, Liddell is bought by Hilden Manufacturing Ltd.

Based in Oswaldtwistle, England, the new owners are the pioneers of the original Spinning Jenny, invented in the UK.

1999 – Liddell adorns Burj Al Arab

The company is asked to deliver linen for the world famous Burj Al Arab 7 star hotel, opening the door to a new world of opulence and luxury in Dubai.

1973 – William meets William

William Liddell & Company merges with William Ewart & Sons to become Ewart Liddell.

The move brings together decades of industry experience and expertise.

1912 – Liddell decks out The Titanic

William Liddell is invited to produce the linen for White Star Cruise Liners, the owner of the luxury liner Titanic.

1908 – Gold medal linens

William Liddell & Company takes part in the Franco British Exhibition winning a gold medal award for bringing linen from the field to the home.

By 1908, the company has its own offices as far afield as Belfast, London, Melbourne, Toronto, Christchurch New Zealand, Shanghai, Yokohama Japan, Buenos Aries, Rio de Janeiro and Capetown in South Africa.

1900 – Export capital of the world

During the 19th century people flood into Belfast to work in the new linen mills.

By the start of the 20th century, the city is producing and exporting more linen than anywhere else in the world, driven by industrialisation and Belfast’s position on the River Lagan, providing export routes out to the world.

1866 – William Liddell & Co opens its door

After serving his apprenticeship in the linen trade from the age of 14 onwards, William Liddell goes on to set up his own business in 1866.

Founded in Donaghcloney, William Liddell & Company opens its doors. The factory is the largest Irish linen jacquard weaving company in Ireland.

1828 – Weaving linen – a success

Mullholland’s cotton mill in Belfast burns down, before being rebuilt to spin flax. The change proves so successful, many other companies turn their attention to weaving linen.

The early success of the linen industry in Belfast results in more linen firms starting up in the local area. Mullholland’s original spinning mill became the York Street Flax Spinning and Weaving Company – the largest in the world.

1814 – Ewart & Sons start trading in Belfast

William Ewart & Sons begin trading in Belfast. The business is founded by Sir William Ewart, a prominent politician and philanthropist.

Sir William is the third generation in a line of merchants active in the linen industry.

1784 – Linen capital of the world

In 1784, Ireland is widely regarded as the linen Capital of the world.

This is the year the White Linen Hall is built in the city of Belfast, with local merchants attempting to take control of the linen trade from Dublin.

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